From the FDA Drug Label
5 Ocular Disorders Medication should not be readministered pending examination if there is a sudden partial or complete loss of vision or if there is a sudden onset of proptosis, diplopia, or migraine. If examination reveals papilledema or retinal vascular lesions, medication should not be readministered.
Blurred vision is not explicitly mentioned as a reason to discontinue progesterone (Depo-Provera) for birth control. However, the label does mention that medication should not be readministered if there is a sudden partial or complete loss of vision.
- Key points:
- Sudden partial or complete loss of vision is a reason to discontinue the medication.
- Blurred vision is not explicitly mentioned.
- It is recommended to exercise caution and consult a healthcare provider if blurred vision occurs. 1
From the Research
Blurry vision is a concerning side effect of Depo-Provera (medroxyprogesterone acetate) and may warrant discontinuation of the medication, as it could indicate a serious adverse reaction such as blood clots, stroke, or changes in intracranial pressure 2.
Clinical Considerations
When experiencing blurry vision while on Depo-Provera, it is essential to contact a healthcare provider promptly to investigate the cause of the vision changes. The provider might recommend switching to a different contraceptive method, such as the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) or the copper intrauterine device (IUD), while evaluating the cause of the vision changes 3, 4.
Mechanism and Risks
The mechanism behind vision changes may relate to fluid retention or vascular effects of the hormone, and it is crucial to document when the blurry vision occurs, its duration, and any other symptoms experienced to help the provider make an informed decision about contraceptive options 2.
Alternative Contraceptive Options
Studies have shown that the LNG-IUS is more effective than oral medication in reducing heavy menstrual bleeding and improving quality of life, with minimal adverse effects 3. Additionally, the LNG-IUS has been found to be a suitable option for infertile women with endometrial hyperplasia without atypia, with high endometrial hyperplasia regression rates and comparable live birth rates following assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycles 5.
Recommendation
Given the potential risks associated with blurry vision and the availability of alternative contraceptive options, it is recommended to discontinue Depo-Provera and switch to a different method, such as the LNG-IUS or IUD, under the guidance of a healthcare provider 2, 5.